System and method for detecting an addition of a game piece to a stack of game pieces

ABSTRACT

Described herein are systems and method for determining a presence and/or type of an object positioned on a platform. The system may include: a tag reader configured to determine a type of an object, the object including a tag readable by the tag reader; a load cell configured to detect the presence of the object on a platform, the object having a known weight; and the platform including at least one face for receiving the object. The platform is communicatively coupled to the load cell and the tag reader. The presence of the object is detected by the load cell housed in the platform when the object is position on the at least one face of the platform. The type of the object is determined by the tag reader housed in the platform when the object is in physical proximity to the platform.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/080,424, filed Aug. 28, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,949,628,which is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of PatentCooperation Treaty Application Number PCT/IB2017/051135 having a filingdate of Feb. 2, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/301,191, entitled “Systems and Methodsfor determining the presence and type of an object,” filed Feb. 29,2016. Applicant claims priority to and the benefit of each of suchapplications.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to the consumer products, gaming, andlogistics fields, and more specifically to new and useful systems andmethods for determining the presence and type of an object.

BACKGROUND

According to a 2013 study by Spil Games, 1.2 billion people worldwideare playing games. Of those 1.2 billion people, 700 million peopleworldwide are playing games online. Further, the worldwide gaming marketis a $70.4 billion industry with an expected growth rate of 6% yearly(Spil Games, “State of Online Gaming Report,” 2013, pp. 1-17.). Thesenumbers largely represent individuals either playing physical games(e.g., board games, cards, etc.) or online games (e.g., mobileapplications, Internet sites, etc.) There are very few games in whichevents in the physical world impact events in a virtual world (ordigital user experience) or vice versa. Some games allow users tomanipulates an input device, for example a joystick, weapon, remote,his/her body, etc., to effect changes in the virtual world, but suchgames do not connect playing of a physical game with physical objects toa virtual world with virtual objects.

Further, the technology used to link the physical and virtual worlds,and to inform the virtual world when an even occurs in the physicalworld, is widely applicable to other industries, for example logisticsand consumer products. For example, the need to know where product islocated relative to another product, a presence of the product, a typeof the product, characteristics (e.g., weight) of the product, and tonotify a driver, manager, personnel, etc. of the location of the productusing a digital user experience is necessary in the field of logistics.

Thus, there is a need for a new and useful systems and methods fordetermining the presence and type of an object. This invention providessuch new and useful systems and methods.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system fordetermining one or more of a presence of an object and a type of theobject in a defined area. In some embodiments, the system includes: atag reader configured to determine the type of the object, a load cellconfigured to detect the presence of the object in the defined area; anda platform including a bottom face for contacting a support surface anda top face configured to provide a surface for receiving the object. Insome such embodiments, the object has a known weight. In someembodiments, the object includes a tag that is readable by the tagreader, and the load cell detects the known weight of the object in thedefined area. In some embodiments, the bottom and top faces define ahousing configured to receive the load cell and the tag reader. In somesuch embodiments, the presence of the object is detected by the loadcell housed in the platform when the object is positioned on the topface of the platform, and the type of the object is determined by thetag reader housed in the platform when the object is in physicalproximity to the platform.

In some embodiments, the system further includes the object.

In some embodiments, the system further includes a first processorcommunicatively coupled to the tag reader and the load cell. In somesuch embodiments, the platform includes a computer-readable mediumhaving non-transitory, processor-executable instructions stored thereon,so that execution of the instructions causes the first processor toperform a method. In some embodiments, the method includes: receiving anoutput from one or more of the tag reader and the load cell. In somesuch embodiments, the output comprises one or more of the presence ofthe object and the type of the object.

In some embodiments, the system includes a computing device including asecond processor. In some such embodiments, the computing device iscommunicatively coupled to the platform. Further, in some suchembodiments, the method performed by the first processor includes:transmitting the output from one or more of the tag reader and the loadcell to the computing device.

In some embodiments, the output includes a real time data feed of astatus of the object.

In some embodiments, the method performed by the second processorfurther includes: analyzing the real-time data feed of the status of theobject; and determining one or more of; an amount of lapsed time betweendetermining the type of the object and the presence of the object; aquality of positioning of the object on the platform; and a completionof a challenge.

In some embodiments, the method performed by the second processorfurther includes: displaying or updating a digital user experience basedon the output from the platform.

In some embodiments, the tag comprises one of a radiofrequencyidentification tag, a near field communication tag, and a low-energyBluetooth tag.

In some embodiments, the top face is flat.

In some embodiments, the bottom face is flat.

In some embodiments, the type of the object is one of a beast piece, anaction piece, an element piece, and a miracle piece.

In some embodiments, the type of the object is one of a consumableproduct and a non-consumable product.

In some embodiments, the type of the object is one of an object formeasuring one or more of dexterity, coordination, memory, and motorskills.

In some embodiments, the presence of the object is detected bydetermining the known weight of the object in the defined area.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system foridentifying the addition of one object into a group of objects. In someembodiments, the system includes: load cell configured to detect apresence of an object; a tag reader configured to determine a type ofthe object; and a platform communicatively coupled to the load cell andthe tag reader. In some such embodiments, the presence of the object isdetected by the load cell when the object is positioned on a face of theplatform, and the type of the object is determined by the tag readerwhen the object is in physical proximity to the platform.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a game foridentifying objects in a stack and updating a digital user experiencebased on the objects identified in the stack. In some embodiments, thegame includes: an object of known weight comprising a tag; a tag readerconfigured to determine a type of the object; a load cell configured todetect a presence of the object in a defined area; and a platformincluding at least one face, the at least one face configured to receivethe object. In some such embodiments, the tag of the object is readableby the tag reader. In some embodiments, the platform is communicativelycoupled to the load cell and the tag reader. In some embodiments, thepresence of the object is detected by the load cell when the object ispositioned on the at least one face of the platform. In someembodiments, the type of the object is determined by the tag reader whenthe object is in physical proximity to the platform.

In some embodiments, the type of the object is one of a beast piece, anaction piece, an element piece, and a miracle piece.

In some embodiments, the game further includes a computing deviceincluding a processor. In some such embodiments, the computing deviceincludes a computer-readable medium having non-transitory,processor-executable instructions stored thereon, so that execution ofthe instructions causes the processor to perform a method. In someembodiments, the method includes: receiving an output from the platform,such that the output details one or more of the presence and type of theobject; and displaying the digital user experience, such that thedigital user experience presents the object based on the output from theplatform or updates in response to the output from the platform.

In some embodiments, the output is received in real-time.

In some embodiments, the game further includes a computing deviceincluding a processor. In some embodiments, the computing device isconfigured to display a digital user experience. Further, in some suchembodiments, the computing device includes a computer-readable mediumhaving non-transitory, processor-executable instructions stored thereon,so that execution of the instructions causes the processor to perform amethod. In some embodiments, the method includes: receiving an outputfrom the platform, such that the output details one or more of thepresence and type of the object; and updating the digital userexperience displayed by the computing device in response to the outputfrom the platform.

In some embodiments, the game further includes a computing deviceincluding a processor, such that the computing device is configured todisplay a digital user experience. In some such embodiments, thecomputing device includes a computer-readable medium havingnon-transitory, processor-executable instructions stored thereon, sothat execution of the instructions causes the processor to perform amethod. In some embodiments, the method includes: receiving an outputfrom the platform, such that the output details one or more of thepresence and type of the object; and updating a feature of the digitaluser experience in response to the output from the platform.

In some embodiments, the feature is one or more of a characteristic of abeast and an environment surrounding the beast.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system fordetermining one or more of a presence of an object and a type of theobject in a defined area. In some embodiments, the system includes: atag reader configured to determine the type of the object, such that theobject has a known weight, and the object includes a tag that isreadable by the tag reader; a load cell configured to detect thepresence of the object in the defined area, such that the load celldetects the known weight of the object in the defined area; and aplatform configured to receive the object. In some embodiments, theplatform is communicatively coupled to the load cell and the tag reader.In some embodiments, the presence of the object is detected by the loadcell when the object is positioned on the platform. In some embodiments,the type of the object is determined by the tag reader when the objectis in physical proximity to the platform.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method ofidentifying objects in a stack and displaying the objects in a digitaluser experience. In some embodiments, the method includes: identifying atype of a first object using a tag reader, such that the first objectincludes a tag, and the first object is identified when it is inphysical proximity to the tag reader; representing the type of the firstobject in a digital user experience displayed on a display of acomputing device, such that the computing device is communicativelycoupled to the tag reader and a load cell; receiving the first object ona platform, such that the platform is communicatively coupled to the tagreader and the load sensor; detecting, using the load sensor, a presenceof the first object on the platform; and updating the digital userexperience displayed on the display of the computing device to indicatethat the first object was positioned on the platform.

In some embodiments, the method further includes limiting an amount oftime a user has to position the first object on the platform.

In some embodiments, the method further includes penalizing the user fornot positioning the first object on the platform in the amount of time.

In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a secondobject on the platform. In some such embodiments, the second object ispositioned one of: on top of the first object, adjacent to the firstobject, and underneath or below the first object.

In some embodiments, the method further includes penalizing a user fordislodging one or more of the first and second objects.

In some embodiments, the method further includes notifying a user of oneor more of: the first object being identified by the tag reader, thefirst object being detected by the load cell, the digital userexperience being updated, and the first object being dislodged from theplatform.

In some embodiments, the method further includes ending the game if auser dislodges the first object from the platform.

In some embodiments, the digital user experience is updated inreal-time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a system for determining a presenceof an object and/or a type of the object in a defined area.

FIG. 2A illustrates one embodiment of a system for determining apresence of an object and/or a type of the object in a defined area.

FIG. 2B illustrates one embodiment of a system for determining apresence of an object and/or a type of the object in a defined area.

FIG. 2C illustrates one embodiment of a system for determining apresence of an object and/or a type of the object in a defined area.

FIG. 2D illustrates one embodiment of a system for determining apresence of an object and/or a type of the object in a defined area.

FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a computing device.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a platform.

FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a platform.

FIG. 5B illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a platform.

FIG. 5C illustrates a bottom view of one embodiment of a platform.

FIG. 6A illustrates one embodiment of an object.

FIG. 6B illustrates one embodiment of an object.

FIG. 6C illustrates one embodiment of an object.

FIG. 6D illustrates one embodiment of an object.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a plurality of objects positionedon a platform.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a digital user experience.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart of one embodiment of a method ofidentifying objects in a stack and, optionally displaying the objects ina digital user experience.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of various embodiments of continuing orfinishing a game comprising objects identified in a stack and displayedin a digital user experience.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. Theabove mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, andadvantages of the present technology will now be described in connectionwith various embodiments. The inclusion of the following embodiments isnot intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments, but rather toenable any person skilled in the art to make and use the contemplatedinvention(s). Other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may bemade without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matterpresented herein. Aspects of the disclosure, as described andillustrated herein, can be arranged, combined, modified, and designed ina variety of different formulations, all of which are explicitlycontemplated and form part of this disclosure.

Described herein are systems and methods designed for use by a user. Auser may include a person who plays games, a person who borrows or buysproducts, a person who is part of a product shipping and/or deliveryprocess, and/or a healthcare provider.

For example, a person who plays games includes a gamer, a player, achild, a teenager, an adult, a gambler, a person who plays games online,a person who plays physical games, etc.

For example, a person who borrows or buys products includes a customerat a supermarket, mall, outlet, store, etc.; a person who borrowsphysical materials and/or audio/visual materials from a library; aperson who rents audio/visual materials from a video store; a person whobuys physical materials and/or audio/visual materials from a bookstore,etc.

For example, a person who is part of a product shipping and/or deliveryprocess includes a manufacturer; warehouse personnel; a logisticscompany or personnel within the company; personnel in any facility thatships materials and/or products; etc.

For example, a healthcare provider includes a physical therapist (e.g.,geriatric, orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, pediatric, etc.),a family practitioner, a neurologist, orthopedic doctor and/or surgeon,oncologist, etc.

In some embodiments, a user does not directly interact with the system.For example, the system may determine the presence and type of theobject (e.g., stock, deliveries, shipments, etc.) and the user mayoversee, review, and/or validate the presence and type of the object.

Described herein are systems and methods designed to determine thepresence, and/or type of an object. In some embodiments, an object mayinclude a game piece, and object for outdoor use (e.g., landscaping,leisure, etc.), an object for indoor use, furniture, clothing, jewelry,vehicle, animal, pharmaceuticals, packages, shipments, parcels, mail,biologics, and/or any other object or item, living or inanimate.

In some embodiments, an object is consumable. In some such embodiments,the object is: a food item (FIG. 2A); a beverage (FIG. 2A); a liquid; apharmaceutical; etc.

In some embodiments, an object is non-consumable. In some suchembodiments, the object is: freight (FIG. 2C); a game piece (FIGS.6A-6D); a package (FIG. 2B and FIG. 2D); a delivery; a shipment; aparcel (FIG. 2B and FIG. 2D); cargo; furniture; lumber; stone; clothing,etc.

In some embodiments, the object is configured for measuring dexterity,coordination, memory, and/or motor skills of a user. For example, thesystem may measure a user's ability to stack objects on a platformwithout dislodging other objects in the stack; remember when (e.g.,last, second to last, first, etc.) the user positioned an object on theplatform and/or in which order the objects were stacked; or any othertype of exercise.

In some embodiments, the user is in a particular user state whilestacking the object. Non-limiting examples of user states include oneobject in one hand, one object in each hand, one object in dominant handor non-dominant hand, user sitting while stacking, user standing on twofeet while stacking, user standing on one foot while stacking, and userclosing one eye while stacking.

In some embodiments, a weight of the object is known. For example, thesystem may detect the presence of the object by detecting the weight ofthe object, verifying the detected weight against a known weight of theobject, and/or confirming that the object was positioned on the platformby detecting the presence or weight of the object on the platform.

In some embodiments, the object includes a tag coupled to, within, ornext to the object. The tag may be readable by a tag reader, asdescribed elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, a tag indicates: a manufacturing date of theobject; a shipment date of the object; a location of the object (e.g.,on the platform, near the platform, in the warehouse, in the cargo hold,at the final destination, delivered, in an environment, etc.), adelivery date of the object; a receipt date of the object; a type of theobject (e.g., consumable, non-consumable, which game piece it is, etc.);a name of the object; a characteristic of the object (e.g., game piecetype, shape, color, weight, etc.); a per unit dose of the object (e.g.,for pharmaceuticals, vitamins, etc.); a return date of the object; awarranty date of the object; rules associated with the object (e.g.,when playing a game with the object, for return, for warranty work orrepair, etc.); a price of the object; an expiration date of the object;a best by date of the object; a use by date of the object; compositionof the object (e.g., fabric, ingredients, plastics, etc.); country oforigin of the object: feature(s) of the object (e.g., organic,grass-fed, free-range, shape, color, weight, size, etc.); or any otherparameter or information.

In some embodiments, a tag provides an identifier, which is used, forexample, to look up information in a database or lookup table or queryinformation using one or more search engines.

In some embodiments, the one or more objects are stackable orpositionable relative to one another on a platform. For example, a firstobject may be positioned on top of, adjacent to, underneath, in parallelto, perpendicular to, etc. a second object or a plurality of objects, asshown in FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2D, and FIG. 7 . In one embodiment, asshown in FIG. 7 , a plurality of objects 34 is positioned in a stack 74on the platform 12, for example a vertical stack.

In some embodiments, a platform comprises a base, surface, or face onwhich objects are stacked or positioned (FIGS. 5A-5C); a scale, surface,or area 2 (FIG. 2A); a shelf or shelving unit 4 (FIG. 2B); a floor orsurface in a boxcar, cargo hold, or trunk 6 (FIG. 2C); a surface on avehicle or machine 8 (FIG. 2D); or any other surface or structurecommunicatively coupled to a load cell and/or tag reader and/orconfigured to house a load cell and/or tag reader.

Described herein are methods for identifying an object or a plurality ofobjects in stack. In some embodiments, information or data about anobject or plurality of objects is input into a system, for example acomputing device. In some embodiments, the system verifies or determinesthe identity of, presence of, location of, or information about theobject or plurality of objects by reading a tag associated with theobject or the plurality of objects. In some embodiments, the systemverifies the presence of the object, for example by detecting thepresence (e.g., weight) of the object or the plurality of objects on aplatform. In some embodiments, each object has a unique tag.Alternatively, in some embodiments, a collection or plurality of objectshas the same tag.

SYSTEM

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 , a system 10 for determiningthe presence and/or type of an object includes a platform 12communicatively coupled to a load cell and tag reader: optionally, acomputing device 14 communicatively coupled to the platform and,optionally, the load cell and tag reader; and, optionally, a server 16.Various components of the system 10 function to detect an object on theplatform 12 and/or determine a type or characteristic of an object.

In some embodiments, there is one-way or two-way communication betweenthe computing device 14 and the server 16, the computing device 14 andthe platform 12, and/or the server 16 and the platform 12. The computingdevice 14, platform 12, and/or server 16 may communicate wirelessly(i.e., send or transmit information) via a wired connection (e.g., IEEE1394, Thunderbolt, Lightning, DVI, HDMI, Serial, Universal Seral Bus,Parallel, Ethernet, Coaxial, VGA, PS/2) or wirelessly (e.g., viaBluetooth, low energy Bluetooth, near-field communication, Infrared,WLAN, or other RF technology). In one such embodiment, as shown in FIG.3 and FIG. 4 , the platform 12 and/or computing device 14 include one ormore radios 42, 52 (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE, etc.) and antennas 44, 54 forintercommunication. For example, the platform radio 42 transmits asignal (e.g., radio waves or radiofrequency) to the computing device 14via an antenna 44, and the computing device 14 receives the signal andanalyzes the information in the signal (e.g., type of game piece beingplayed, product type, etc.). As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4 , thecomputing device 14 may receive and/or import data from the platform 12to update a digital user experience rendered or created by the computingdevice 14, and, optionally, displayed to a user, as described in furtherdetail elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 , the system 10 optionallyincludes a server 16. The server functions to store data and/or to sharedata between system components. The server 16 may be a local server onthe computing device or a remote server. In some embodiments, the server16 is a virtual server. In some embodiments, the server 16 may sharedata between the computing device 14 and the platform 12. In someembodiments, the server 16 may push notifications, updates, and/orinformation to the computing device 14 and/or platform 12, for example,to update an operating system or application executed by the computingdevice 14 and/or platform 12; and/or to notify the user of a systemfeature, setting, malfunction, update, and/or alert.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 , FIG. 4 , and FIGS. 5A-5C, thesystem 10 further includes a platform 12. The platform 12 functions toreceive an object on a surface, in a defined area, and/or on a face ofthe platform 12. In some embodiments, the platform 12 includes at leastone face 20 configured to provide a surface for receiving an object. Inone variation, as shown in FIG. 5A, the platform 12 includes a firstface or bottom face 22 for contacting a support surface 76 (e.g., table,floor, lap of a user, etc.), and a second face or top face 20 forreceiving an object. The top 20 and/or bottom 22 face may be flat,planar, irregular, pointed, etc. In one variation, the top 20 and/orbottom 22 face is flat.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the top 20 and bottom 22 facesof the platform 12 together define a housing 24 for receiving a loadcell 30 and/or tag reader 32. The top face 20, bottom face 22, and/orsidewalls 26 may be any size, shape, and/or color. In some embodiments,the top face 20, bottom face 22, and/or sidewalls 26 may be: circular,hexagonal, rectangular, triangular, a parallelogram, etc. In one suchembodiment, the top 20 and bottom 22 faces are hexagonal and thesidewalls 26 are each a parallelogram. For example, the hexagon of thetop face 20 may be offset from the hexagon of the bottom face 22.Alternatively, the hexagons of the top 20 and bottom 22 faces may bealigned. In some embodiments, there may be 1-20 sidewalls 26. In someembodiments, there may be 1-10 sidewalls 26. In one embodiment, thereare six sidewalls 26 coupled to the top 20 and bottom 22 faces, witheach sidewall 26 coupled to the top face 20 on a first side 26 aopposite a second side 26 b to which the bottom face 22 is coupled, asshown in FIG. 5A. In some embodiments, the top face 20 has a surfacearea smaller than the bottom face, equal to the bottom face, or largerthan the bottom face. In one such embodiment, the surface area of thebottom face 22 is larger than that of the top face 20.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, the top face 20 ofthe platform 12 includes a surface or defined area 28 configured forreceiving one or more objects. In some embodiments, the shape and/orsize of the defined area or surface 28 corresponds to a detectable areaof the load cell, such that an object positioned on the surface or inthe defined area 28 is detected by the load cell. For example, thedefined area 28 may be any size, shape, and/or color. In someembodiments, the defined area 28 may be: circular, hexagonal,rectangular, triangular, a parallelogram, etc. In one such embodiment,the defined area 28 is a circle or circular.

In some embodiments, a face 20 of the platform 12 is configured toprovide a surface or defined area 28 for receiving an object.Non-limiting examples of objects include: a beast, an action piece, anelement piece, and/or a miracle piece. As shown in FIG. 6A, a beast maybe shaped similar to flora, fauna, mammals, reptiles, fish, plants, etc.on land, in air, or in sea. As shown in FIG. 6B, an action piece may beshaped similar to a cross, hash mark, slash, etc. As shown in FIG. 6C,an element piece may be shaped similar to wind, fire, water, earth, etc.or represent wind, fire, water, earth, etc. As shown in FIG. 6D, amiracle piece may be shaped similar to an arc, semi-circle, handle, etc.

In some embodiments, when an object is positioned on the platform, atleast one of a presence and type of the object is detected by at leastone of the load cell and tag reader. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A,when a beast 90 is positioned on the platform 12, the beast 90 isdetected by at least one of the load cell and tag reader. At least oneof a presence and type of the beast 90 is transmitted from the platform12 to the computing device 14 so that the beast 90 may be displayed in avirtual world or digital user experience on the computing device.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the platform 12 is configured todisplay the beast in the virtual world or digital user experience. Eachbeast 90 is displayed in the digital user experience with apre-determined set or number of points.

Further for example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the action piece 92 mayinclude a migrate piece or a cross piece. The action pieces 92 functionto facilitate physical stacking or positioning of the objects on theplatform 12. For example, the migrate and cross pieces are flat orplanar in shape. In some embodiments, the migrate and cross ;ices areshaped as a rectangle, square, circle, triangle, cross, etc. In oneembodiment, the migrate piece is a rectangle and the cross piece is across. Further, in some embodiments of a game in which the migrate pieceis used, the migrate piece takes one object or beast in a firstenvironment of the digital user experience and creates a new object orbeast in a second or different environment of the digital userexperience. For example, an object or beast in an air environment wouldchange to an object or beast in a land or sea environment. The crosspiece, when played, cross-breads two beast objects to create a newbeast. Each time a new object or beast is created in the digital userexperience, the new object or beast is given a new name.

Further for example, as shown in FIG. 6C, an element piece 94 addspoints to a beast 90 or object. In some variations, the element piece 94functions to keep a beast 90 from extinction by adding points to thebeast. In some embodiments, an element piece comprises two halves. Insome such embodiments, each half adds a set number of points to anenvironment (e.g., land, sea, air, surrounding the object, etc.) of thedigital user experience. The element piece 94 may be shaped or coloredsimilar to water, fire, wind, earth, nitrogen, hurricane, typhoon,tsunami, earthquake, etc.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6D, a miracle piece 96 functions to encourageuser interaction with the system components (e.g., platform, load cell,tag reader, computing device, etc.). For example, a miracle piece 96 maybe a point multiplier (e.g., points x2, x3, x4, x5, xn . . . ) if a usermeets a challenge indicated by the system. In some embodiments, thechallenge is a physical challenge (e.g., involves one or more objectsand/or the platform). In some such embodiments, a physical challengeincludes: positioning an object on the platform in a pre-determinedperiod of time or a limited amount of time; not dislodging or disruptinga stack of objects; applying weight to the piece and thus the platform(e.g., to be measured by the load cell); removing an object or aplurality of objects from the platform; replaying an object or aplurality of objects removed from the platform: etc. In someembodiments, the challenge is a digital challenge (e.g., selecting auser input device and/or changing an aspect of the digital userexperience). In some such embodiments, a digital challenge includes:pressing or selecting a user input element as the same or different userpositions an object on the platform or removes an object from theplatform; selecting a user input element to change or alter anappearance of the digital user experience; etc. The miracle piece 96 maybe shaped similar to a rod, an arc, a T, etc.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the system 10 and/or platform12 includes a load cell 30. The load cell 30 functions to measure aweight and/or presence of an object 34. Alternatively or additionally,the load cell may measure a pressure a user applies to the object and/orplatform when positioning the object on the platform. In someembodiments, a load cell 30 detects a presence of an object 34positioned on a top face 20 of a platform 12 and the output from theload cell is analyzed by the computing device to determine a weight ofone or more objects on the platform, as described elsewhere herein. Insome embodiments, the load cell 30 is housed in the platform 12, forexample between one or more sidewalls 26 and/or between a top face 20and a bottom face 22. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the load cell30 is in a separate, second, or additional platform.

In one embodiment, the load cell 30 is a strain gauge, such that theforce imposed upon the platform by the object 34 deforms the straingauge. The deformation of the strain gauge results in a change inelectrical resistance read by the processor 36, 56. In one embodiment,the load cell 30 is a piezoelectric load cell 30, such that deformationof the piezoelectric material results in a change in voltage output readby the processor 36, 56. In one embodiment, the load cell 30 is ahydraulic load cell, such that the increased pressure on the piston anddiaphragm results in an increase of oil pressure, which produces achange in pressure read by the processor 36, 56.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the system 10 and/or platform12 includes a tag reader 32. The tag reader functions to identify a typeof an object 34 by reading a tag 38 coupled to or associated with theobject 34. In some embodiments, the tag reader 32 also functions todetermine a presence of the object 34, such that once the tag 38associated with the object 34 is detected by the tag reader 32, thesystem knows that the object 34 is present, for example on the platform12 or at least in proximity to the platform 12. For example, the tagreader 32 determines a type of an object 34 in physical proximity (e.g.,close to, next to, adjacent to, near, etc.) to the platform 12 bytransmitting an interrogating signal (e.g. radio waves) to the tag 38 inthe object 34 via an antenna 40, and the tag 38 receives theinterrogating signal and responds with its unique information (e.g.,type of game piece being played, product type, etc.). In someembodiments, the physical proximity is 0.5 cm to 10 cm. In oneembodiment, the physical proximity is 2 cm to 4 cm. In one embodiment,the physical proximity is substantially or about 3 cm. In someembodiments, the tag reader 32 uses radio waves. In one such embodiment,the tag reader 32 uses radiofrequency identification (RFID) (e.g., lowfrequency, high frequency, ultra-high frequency). In one suchembodiment, the tag reader 32 uses near field communication orhigh-frequency RFID.

In some embodiments, the tag reader 32 may be housed in the platform 12,for example between one or more sidewalls 26 and/or between a top face20 and a bottom face 22. Alternatively, the tag reader 32 may be aseparate device, housed in a separate or second platform, or part of acomputing device 14.

In some embodiments, the tag 38 is a beacon that transmits informationvia radio waves (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE, etc.) to a receiving radio, forexample in the platform 12.

In some embodiments, the tag reader 32 is a scanner. In one suchembodiment, the tag reader 32 is a barcode scanner and the tag 38 is abarcode. In one such embodiment, the tag reader 32 is a QR code scannerand the tag 38 is a QR code.

In some embodiments, the tag reader 32 is a camera. In one suchembodiment, the tag reader 32 photographs the object 34, and the imageof the object 34 is analyzed to determine the type of the object 34.

In some embodiments, the tag reader 32 is a magnetic reading head andthe tag 38 is a magnetic strip. For example, information or data aboutthe type of the object 34 is stored in the magnetic strip by modifyingthe magnetism of iron-based magnetic particles on a band of magneticmaterial in the magnetic strip. In some embodiments, the tag reader 32is a chip reader or RFID reader and the tag 38 is a chip. For example,the information or data about the type of the object 34 is stored in anintegrated circuit in the chip. The chip is inserted or dipped into atag reader 32 or read without contact by a tag reader 32 (e.g., RFIDreader).

In some embodiments, the tag 38 interrogated by the tag reader 32 is apassive tag (i.e., does not have its own power source). In someembodiments, the tag 38 interrogated by the tag reader 32 is an activetag (i.e., includes its own power source). In some embodiments, the tag38 interrogated by the tag reader 32 is a battery-assisted passivesystem (i.e., uses integrated power source (e.g., battery) to power ontag). In some embodiments, the tag 38 is a read-only tag. In someembodiments, the tag 38 is a read-write tag.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the system 10 and/or platform12 include one or more user input elements 46. The user input elements46 function to receive input from a user that effect a functioning ofthe platform 12 and/or computing device 14. A user input element 46 mayinclude: a button, slider, toggle button, toggle switch, switch, and/orany other type of control. In some embodiments, the load cell 30, tagreader 32, radio 42, and/or other system components function as the userinput element. For example, a user input element 46 may include: andon/off switch; a rare button or switch (i.e., for resetting a loadcell); a switch that selects a level of play fro the platform/game; aswitch that turns on/off one or more components (e.g., load cell, tagreader, light module, power source, radio, etc.) of the system 10; wakeup or start the system 10 from a sleep or off state; and/or any othertype of switch or button.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 , one or more of the platform 12and computing device 14 include a display 50. In some such embodiments,the display 50 may include virtual user input elements: buttons,sliders, toggle buttons, toggle switches, switches, dropdown menus,combo boxes, text input fields, check boxes, radio buttons, pickercontrols, segmented controls, steppers, and/or any other type of controlto effect the functioning of the platform and/or computing device. Insome embodiments, the user may use different tactile or haptic lengthsor pressures to navigate on the display. For example, a user may use ashort press, long press, light press, or forceful press to navigate onthe display. The display 50 may includes a Thin Film Transistor liquidcrystal display (LCD), in-place switching LCD, resistive touchscreenLCD, capacitive touchscreen LCD, organic light emitting diode (LED),Active-Matrix organic LED (AMOLED), Super AMOLED, Retina display,Haptic/Tactile touchscreen, and/or Gorilla Glass.

In some embodiments, the display 50 of the platform 12 and/or computingdevice 14 is configured to display a digital user experience 60, asshown in FIG. 8 . For example, the digital user experience 60 maydisplay one or more objects 34 in a virtual world, a location of anobject, a feature or characteristic of an object, a point total for thegame or a user, an environment 62 (e.g., land, sea, air, warehouse,supermarket, shelf, store, digital user experience, etc.), and/or updatebased on the type and/or presence of the object 34. In some embodiments,the digital user experience 60 includes a score or point total 64 forone user or a plurality of users.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the system 10 and/or platform12 includes a light module 48. The light module 48 functions to indicatea status of the system component. In some embodiments, the light module48 is a light-emitting diode (LED), organic LED (OLED), fluorescentlight, and/or any other type of light. A status of a system componentindicated by the light module 48 may include: a power status (e.g., on,off, fully charged, low battery, etc.); an update status (e.g., updaterequired, fully up-to-date, etc.); a connection status (e.g., connectedto computing device, not connected to computing device, connected toserver, not connected to server, connected to Internet, etc.); a gamestatus (e.g., new game, game ending, current highest point total, etc.);a status of an object on the platform (e.g., weight of object detected,presence of object detected, type of object detected, etc.); or anyother type of status. In some embodiments, the color of the light module48 changes to indicate a status of the system 10 and/or platform 12.Alternatively or additionally, the light module 48 may flash in apattern or blink to indicate a status of the system 10 and/or platform12.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 , the system 10optionally includes a computing device 14. The computing device 14functions to receive load cell and/or tag information from the platform12 to determine a type of the object 34, location of the object 34,and/or the presence or absence of the object 34. Alternatively, in someembodiments, the platform 12 functions as the computing device 14. Insome embodiments, the computing device 14 is a stationary computingdevice. In some such embodiments, the stationary computing deviceincludes a desktop computer or a workstation. In some embodiments, thecomputing device 14 is a mobile or portable computing device. In somesuch embodiments, a portable computing device includes, but is notlimited to, a laptop, netbook, tablet, mobile phone, personal digitalassistant, or wearable device (e.g., Google Glass, Apple Watch, etc.).In some embodiments, the computing device 14 is a computational device,wrapped in a chassis that includes a display (visual with or withouttouch responsive capabilities), a central processing unit (e.g.,processor or microprocessor), internal storage (e.g., flash drive), nnumber of components (e.g., specialized chips and/or sensors), and/or nnumber of radios (e.g., WLAN, LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, radiofrequency,etc.).

As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 , the computing device 14 and the platform12 each include a processor 36, 56 (e.g., microcontroller,microprocessor, etc.). In some embodiments, the processor 36, 56 iscoupled, via one or more buses, to the memory 58 in order to readinformation from and write information to the memory 58. The memory 58may be any suitable computer-readable medium that storescomputer-readable instructions for execution by computer-executablecomponents. In some embodiments, the computer-readable instructionsinclude software stored in a non-transitory format, some such softwarehaving been downloaded as an application 70 (e.g., digital userexperience) onto the memory 58 of the computing device 14 and/or theplatform 12. The processor 36, 56, in conjunction with the softwarestored in the memory 58, executes an operating system and one or moreapplications. Some methods described elsewhere herein may be programmedas software instructions contained within the one or more applicationsstored in the memory 58 and executable by the processor 36, 56.

In some embodiments, as shows in FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 , and FIG. 5C, a powersource 72, 82, such as a battery is included within the computing device14 and/or platform 12 and is electrically coupled to provide power tothe processor 36, 56 and other system components (e.g., load cell, tagreader, light module, user input element(s), radios, etc.). The powersource 72, 82 may be rechargeable or disposable.

METHODS

In some embodiments, the computing device and/or platform include acomputer-readable medium having non-transitory, processor-executableinstructions stored thereon. Execution of the instructions causes afirst processor associated with the platform (i.e., platform processor)and/or a second processor associated with the computing device (i.e.,computer processor) to perform a method including receiving an outputfrom the platform. In some embodiments, the output details or describesone or more of a presence of an object detected by the tag reader, atype of an object detected by the tag reader; a location (e.g., on theplatform, not on the platform, undetected, etc.) of the object, and/or acurrent weight of the object or a plurality of objects within a definedarea, for example on the platform. In some embodiments, the outputincludes real-time data or a real-time data feed (e.g., via Bluetooth,BLE, etc.) from the platform to the computing device or from thecomputing device to the platform. The real-time data or real-time datafeed may include a status (e.g., on the platform, off of the platform,near the platform, undetected, in the stack, etc.) of an object and/or asubstantially continuous data feed indicating the perceived weight ofthe one or more objects on the platform. In some embodiments, the statusmay indicate a stability of the stack comprising two or more objects onthe platform.

In some embodiments, the method includes analyzing the real-time datafeed using the computer processor in the computing device.Alternatively, the method is performed by the platform processor. Insome embodiments, the real-time data feed is analyzed by the computingdevice using digital signal processing techniques known to one of skillin the art (e.g., Fourier transforms, data peak detection, discretewavelet transform, etc.). The analyzed real-time data feed may informthe system and/or a user about one or more objects on the platform,about a plurality of objects on the platform (e.g., stack of objects),or a user's interaction with one or more objects and/or systemscomponents. The analyzed real-time data feed or processed output mayindicate a quality of positioning of the object on the platform (e.g.,rough, bad, delicate, etc.); how a user interacted with one or moreobjects on the platform and/or the stack (e.g., tapped the stack,knocked on the stack, pressed the stack, removed an object, added anobject, etc.); the stability of an object and/or stack on the platform;an amount of lapsed time between determining the type of the object andthe presence of the object; a completion of a challenge (e.g., press onthe object or the plurality of objects on the platform; tap on theobject or the plurality of objects; etc.); and/or any other information.

For example, the quality of positioning the object on the platform maybe determined by quantifying and analyzing the time lapse between thesystem detecting the type of the object and the presence of the objecton the platform; and/or determining the number of times the real-timeweight data (as measured by the load cell) increased or decreased duringpositioning of the object on the platform (e.g., indicating number ofattempts at object placement). Further, the system may determine if auser has completed a challenge, for example by determining if a user isknocking or tapping on the stack, and/or platform by counting theduration and/or number of “peaks” in the weight data, real-time datafeed, or processed output; or by detecting additional transient weighton the platform to determine if a user pressed on an object or aplurality of objects on the platform.

In some embodiments, the method further includes displaying a digitaluser experience determined by the received output from the platform orchanging or updating the digital user experience (e.g., displays more orless objects, changes an appearance of an object, changes an appearanceof an environment of the digital user experience, updates a score orpoint total, ends or starts a game, etc.) in response to the receivedoutput from the platform. In some embodiments, a feature of the digitaluser experience is updated in response to the received output from theplatform. In some such embodiments, a feature includes: a characteristicof a beast, a characteristic of an environment surrounding the beast, anappearance of an object; an appearance of an environment, etc.

As shown in FIG. 9 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack and displaying the objects in a digital user experienceincludes identifying a type of a first object using a tag reader S100;representing the type of the first object in a digital user experiencedisplayed on a display of a computing device S110; receiving the firstobject on a platform S120; detecting, using the load sensor, a presenceof the first object on the platform S130; and updating the digital userexperience displayed on the display of one or more of the computingdevice and the platform to indicate that the first object was positionedon the platform S140. The method functions to detect a presence and/ortype of an object in a stack or amongst a plurality of objects (e.g., ina pile, basket, bin, load, etc.). In some embodiments, the method ofFIG. 9 is performed by the platform processor; in some embodiments, themethod of FIG. 9 is performed by the computer processor or a combinationof the platform processor and the computer processor.

As shown in FIG. 9 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack includes block S100, which recites identifying a type of afirst object using a tag reader. Block S100 functions to acquireinformation or data about an object by reading a tag coupled to orassociated with the object. In some embodiments, the tag readeridentifies the object amongst a plurality of objects. In someembodiments, the tag coupled to the object is in physical proximity tothe tag reader, for example 0.5 cm to 10 cm. Alternatively, the tagcoupled to the object is at a distance from the tag reader, for exampleif Wi-Fi or other cellular or wireless protocol is used to transmit thedata or information. In some embodiments, the step of identifyingincludes reading or scanning a tag associated with or coupled to theobject and transmitting information or data, for example contained in anintegrated circuit in the tag, chip, or beacon, to the platform, server,and/or computing device. In some embodiments, identifying includesanalyzing the information or data received from the tag to determine atype of an object, for example by comparing the information or data to adatabase, look-up table, or other resource or data source.

As shown in FIG. 9 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack includes block S110, which recites representing the type ofthe first object in a digital user experience displayed on a display ofone or more of a computing device and the platform. Block S110 functionsto visually notify the user that the type of the object has beendetected, identified, and/or determined. In some embodiments,representing may further include transmitting the type of the objectfrom the platform to the computing device and/or server. In someembodiments, representing includes rendering a visualization of theobject or an environment in which the object evolves on a display of theplatform and/or computing device. In some embodiments, the object isrepresented by a sketch, an animation, an image, a photograph, an icon,a series of photos or images, a video, a graphical representation, orany other representation.

As shown in FIG. 9 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack includes blocks S120 and S130, which recite receiving thefirst object on a platform: and detecting, using the load sensor, apresence of the first object on the platform. Blocks S120 and S130function to verify, validate, or confirm the presence of the object onthe platform. In some embodiments, the method further includes measuringor detecting a weight of the object using a load cell associated with orhoused in the platform. Further, the method may include receiving aplurality of objects on the platform in succession or simultaneously. Insome embodiments, receiving and detecting include notifying (e.g.,audibly, visually, haptically, etc.) a user that the object waspositioned on the platform, for example in a limited amount of time. Forexample, the user may be notified by a noise (e.g., beep, chime, call,voice, etc.), a message (e.g., push notification, short message service(SMS), email, etc.), or by vibration or other haptic response.

As shown in FIG. 9 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack includes block S140, which recites updating the digital userexperience displayed on the display of one or more of the computingdevice and the platform to indicate that the first object was positionedon the platform. In some embodiments, updating includes: adding theobject to an environment in the digital user experience, updating theobject (e.g., changing the shape, color, size; merging two or moreobjects together; removing a different object from the environment;changing a point total or score; indicating a total weight for allobjects positioned on the platform; etc.); analyzing the object, showinga destination for the object, showing a price of the object, etc.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10 , a method for identifyingobjects in a stack optionally (indicated by dashed arrows) includes oneor more of: limiting an amount of time a user has to position the firstobject on the platform S150; penalizing the user for not positioning thefirst object on the platform in the limited amount of time S160;penalizing a user for dislodging one or more of the first and secondobjects S170; receiving a second object on the platform, wherein thesecond object is positioned one of: on top of the first object andadjacent to the first object S180; notifying a user of one or more of:the first object being identified by the tag reader, first object beingdetected by the load cell; the digital user experience being updated,and the first object being dislodged from the platform S190; and/orending the game if a user dislodges the first object from the platformS200. In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 10 is performed by theplatform processor, in some embodiments, the method of FIG. 10 is by thecomputer processor or a combination of both the platform processor andthe computer processor.

As shown in FIG. 10 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack optionally includes block S150, which recites limiting anamount of time a user has to position the first object on the platform.In some embodiments, for example, the user may be given by the system 1second to 5 minutes to position the piece on the platform or stack. Inone embodiment, the user is given 1 second to 10 seconds. In oneembodiment, the user is given 5 seconds. In some embodiments, as shownin blocks S160, S170, and S200, if the user fails to position the objecton the platform in the limited amount of time or if the user dislodgesone or more objects from the platform or stack, the system may penalizethe user, for example, by ending a points bonus multiplier that was inplay, removing points from the user's score, ending the game,eliminating the user's object(s) from the digital user experience,creating an environmental catastrophe (e.g., asteroid, hurricane,radioactive radiation, typhoon, etc.) in the digital user experience,causing extinction of one or more objects, or any other penalty.

As shown in FIG. 10 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack optionally includes block S180, which recites receiving asecond object on the platform, wherein the second object is positionedone of on top of the first object, adjacent to the first object, orsubstantially underneath or below the first object. Block S180 functionsto create a stack of objects on the platform. For example, the stack maybe vertical. In some embodiments, the objects include complementarysurfaces, indentations, or grooves and protrusions that facilitatestacking two or more objects relative to one another.

As shown in FIG. 10 , one embodiment of a method for identifying objectsin a stack optionally includes block S190, which recites notifying auser of one or more of: the object being identified by the tag reader,the object being detected by the load cell; the digital user experiencebeing updated, and an object being dislodged from the platform. Forexample, the user may be audibly (e.g., call, chime, beep, etc.),visually (e.g., change in the light module, change in the display on theplatform and/or computing device, change in the digital user experience,etc.), or haptically (e.g., vibration of platform or object) notified.In some embodiments, the user is notified by a push notification, SMS,email, or other notification received on the computing device. In someembodiments, the light module in the platform and/or computing device isactivated (e.g., lights up) or deactivated (e.g., turns off) to notify auser.

The systems and methods of the preferred embodiment and variationsthereof can be embodied and/or implemented at least in part as a machineconfigured to receive a computer-readable medium storingcomputer-readable instructions. The instructions are preferably executedby computer-executable components preferably integrated with the systemand one or more portions of the processor on the cushion and/or portablecomputing device. The computer-readable medium can be stored on anysuitable computer-readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory,EEPROMs, optical devices (e.g., CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives,or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferablya general or application-specific processor, but any suitable dedicatedhardware or hardware/firmware combination can alternatively oradditionally execute the instructions.

As used in the description and claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and“the” include both singular and plural references unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “object” may include,and is contemplated to include, a plurality of objects. At times, theclaims and disclosure may include terms such as “a plurality, ” “one ormore,” or “at least one,” however, the absence of such terms is notintended to mean, and should not be interpreted to mean, that aplurality is not conceived.

The term “about” or “approximately,” when used before a numericaldesignation or range (e.g. to define a length or pressure), indicatesapproximations which may vary by (+) or (−) 5%, 1% or 0.1%. Allnumerical ranges provided herein are inclusive of the stated start andend numbers. The term “substantially” indicates mostly (i.e., greaterthan 50%) or essentially all of a device, system, or method.

As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is intended to meanthat the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements, andmay additionally include any other elements. “Consisting essentially of”shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recitedelements and exclude other elements of essential significance to thecombination for the stated purpose. Thus, a system or method consistingessentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude othermaterials, features, or steps that do not materially affect the basicand novel characteristic (s) of the claimed invention. “Consisting of”shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recitedelements and exclude anything more than a trivial or inconsequentialelement or step. Embodiments defined by each of these transitional termsare within the scope of this disclosure.

The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way ofillustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which thesubject matter may be practiced. Other embodiments may be utilized andderived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions andchanges may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure.Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred toherein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely forconvenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of thisapplication to any single invention or inventive concept, if more thanone is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have beenillustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achievethe same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown.This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations orvariations of various embodiments. Combinations of the aboveembodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein,will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the abovedescription.

What is claimed is:
 1. A game system for detecting an addition of a gamepiece and a type of the game piece to a stack of one or more game piecesin a defined area associated with a game, the game system comprising: atag reader configured to determine the type of the game piece, whereinthe game piece has a known weight, and wherein the game piece comprisesa tag that is readable by the tag reader; a load cell configured todetect the addition of the game piece to the stack of one or more gamepieces present in the defined area associated with the game, wherein theload cell detects a change that corresponds to the known weight of thegame piece when the game piece is added to the stack of one or more gamepieces present in the defined area; and a platform comprising a bottomface for contacting a support surface and a top face configured toprovide a surface for receiving the stack of one or more game pieces,wherein the bottom and top faces define a housing configured to receivethe load cell and the tag reader, wherein the addition of the game pieceis detected by the load cell housed in the platform when the game pieceis added to the stack of one or more game pieces positioned on the topface of the platform, wherein the type of the game piece is determinedby the tag reader housed in the platform when the game piece is inphysical proximity to the platform, and wherein the game system furthercomprises a first processor communicatively coupled to the tag readerand the load cell and a computer-readable medium having non-transitoryprocessor-executable instructions stored thereon, wherein execution ofthe instructions causes the first processor to perform operations, theoperations comprising: receiving an output from one or more of the tagreader and the load cell, wherein the output comprises one or more ofthe addition of the game piece and the type of the game piece; andcausing, based at least in part on the one or more of the addition ofthe game piece and the type of the game piece, an update to a virtualworld associated with the game.
 2. The game system of claim 1, furthercomprising the game piece.
 3. The game system of claim 1, wherein saidoperation of causing comprises: transmitting the output from one or moreof the tag reader and the load cell to a computing device comprising asecond processor, wherein the computing device is communicativelycoupled to the platform.
 4. The game system of claim 3, wherein theoutput comprises a real time data feed of a status of the game piece. 5.The game system of claim 1, wherein the tag comprises one of aradiofrequency identification tag, a near field communication tag, and alow-energy Bluetooth tag.
 6. The game system of claim 1, wherein the topface is flat.
 7. The game system of claim 1, wherein the bottom face isflat.
 8. The game system of claim 1, wherein the type of the game pieceis one of a beast piece, an action piece, an element piece, and amiracle piece.
 9. The game system of claim 1, wherein the type of thegame piece is one of a consumable product and non-consumable product.10. The game system of claim 1, wherein the type of the game piece isone of a game piece for measuring dexterity, coordination, memory, andmotor skills.
 11. The game system of claim 1, wherein the addition ofthe game piece is detected by determining the known weight of the gamepiece in the defined area.
 12. A game for identifying game pieces in astack of one or more game pieces and updating a virtual world of adigital user experience based on the game pieces identified in thestack, the game comprising: a game piece of known weight comprising atag; a tag reader configured to determine a type of the game piece,wherein the tag of the game piece is readable by the tag reader; a loadcell configured to detect a change that corresponds to an addition ofthe game piece to the stack of one or more game pieces present in adefined area associated with the game; and a platform comprising atleast one face for receiving the stack of one or more game pieces,wherein the platform is communicatively coupled to the load cell and thetag reader, wherein the addition of the game piece in the defined areais detected by the load cell when the game piece is added to the stackof one or more game pieces, wherein the type of the game piece isdetermined by the tag reader when the game piece is in physicalproximity to the platform, and wherein the game further comprises afirst processor communicatively coupled to the tag reader and the loadcell and a computer-readable medium having non-transitory processor-executable instructions stored thereon, wherein execution of theinstructions causes the first processor to perform operations, theoperations comprising: receiving an output from one or more of the tagreader and the load cell, wherein the output comprises one or more ofthe addition of the game piece and the type of the game piece; andcausing, based at least in part on the one or more of the addition ofthe game piece and the type of the game piece, an update to the virtualworld of the digital user experience.
 13. The game of claim 12, whereinthe type of the game piece is one of a beast piece, an action piece, anelement piece, and a miracle piece.
 14. A method of detecting anaddition of a first game piece to a stack of one or more game pieces anddisplaying the game pieces in a digital user gaming experience, themethod comprising: identifying a type of the first game piece using atag reader, wherein the first game piece comprises a tag, and whereinthe first game piece is identified when it is in physical proximity tothe tag reader; causing the type of the first game piece to berepresented in a digital user experience displayed on a display of acomputing device; detecting, using the load sensor, the addition of thefirst game piece to the stack of one or more game pieces present on aplatform, wherein the load sensor detects a change that corresponds tothe known weight of the game piece when the game piece is added to thestack of one or more game pieces present on the platform; and causing,based at least in part on the addition of the game piece and the type ofthe game piece, the digital user experience displayed on the display ofthe computing device to be updated to indicate that the first game piecewas added to the stack of one or more game pieces present on theplatform.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising limiting anamount of time a user has to position the first game piece on theplatform.
 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising penalizing theuser for not positioning the first game piece on the platform in theamount of time.
 17. The method of claim 14, further comprising receivinga second game piece on the platform, wherein the second game piece ispositioned one of: on top of the first game piece, adjacent to the firstgame piece, and underneath or below the first game piece.
 18. The methodof claim 17, further comprising penalizing a user for dislodging one ormore of the first and second game pieces.
 19. The method of claim 14,further comprising causing a user to be notified of one or more of: thefirst game piece being identified by the tag reader; the first gamepiece being detected by the load sensor; and the first game piece beingdislodged from the platform.